Rescue Effort Causes Sailing Delays
The BC Ferries crew played a critical role in a marine rescue Thursday evening, causing delays for travelers on the Spirit of British Columbia. The vessel had left Swartz Bay at 5 p.m. when crew members were called into action. Passengers were informed that a rescue boat had been launched after reports of a person overboard.
Company officials later confirmed that the individual was located. However, details about the person’s condition remained uncertain at the time of the announcement.
Coast Guard and Civilian Vessel Join Efforts
The Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centre in Victoria reported that a Canadian Coast Guard hovercraft also rushed to assist in the operation. Interestingly, the individual was ultimately pulled from the water by a civilian vessel, underscoring the teamwork between official responders and the public during emergencies.
BC Ferries had initially shared on social media that its crew was “assisting” in a marine rescue, without clarifying whether the individual involved was a passenger. That detail remains under review.
A Second Ferry Emergency in Two Days
This incident came just one day after another emergency involving a different ferry. On Wednesday, a passenger accidentally went overboard from the Spirit of Vancouver Island. That person was quickly recovered and transported to shore, where paramedics provided immediate care.
The back-to-back emergencies highlight the unpredictable nature of ferry travel and the quick response required from both crew members and first responders.
Impact on Scheduled Sailings
Because of Thursday’s rescue, BC Ferries announced that later trips on the Spirit of British Columbia would face delays. The 7 p.m. sailing from Tsawwassen and the 9 p.m. departure from Swartz Bay were both expected to run behind schedule.
Passengers were urged to remain patient and monitor updates, as safety operations always take priority over travel timelines.
Safety Above All Else
Ferry officials emphasized that while delays can be frustrating, protecting lives remains the first responsibility. Quick coordination between crew, the Coast Guard, and nearby vessels demonstrated how fast action can prevent tragedy.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire for more updates on travel, safety, and breaking news across British Columbia.
